Letter: Perspective on healthful diet

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Perspective on healthful diet

A recent letter writer suggested that “most of Asia” consists of “stunted people” and attributed this deficiency to the popularity of plant-based diets in the traditional cuisines of that part of the world. He spun what could only be described as a misguided folktale in which the ruling elite promoted vegetarian and vegan diets so as to keep the population docile and in line.

But in contrast to the letter writer’s fanciful story, the American Dietetic Association — the world’s largest organization of nutrition professionals — has concluded that “vegetarian or vegan diets, are healthful, nutritionally adequate, and may provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases.” Their official position also notes that vegetarian and vegan diets are “appropriate for individuals during all stages of the life cycle, including pregnancy, lactation, infancy, childhood, and adolescence, and for athletes.”

With recent reports about the poor health indicators in Douglas County relative to the rest of the state and even the nation as a whole, it’s more important than ever that accurate information be available for those who wish to choose a healthier lifestyle. Ordering a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken is not an act of defiance and long lines at McDonald’s do not worry Washington, D.C.